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Self-discovery presents itself in a myriad of forms. One of the forms utilized for this purpose is that of artistic expression. Tattooing as a vehicle of artistic expression has evolved over time and today tattoos are utilized as a mechanism for self- discovery. This study seeks to expand on prior research conducted by Kathryn Irwin (2003) in efforts to classify a new subcategory of tattoo collection, that of the informed tattoo collector. Using Peter Burke s Identity Theory (1996), this study utilizes the concepts of identity, salience, commitment and self-knowledge to gain insight into the process of becoming an informed tattoo collector.

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Graduate of California State University Bakersfield, class of 2009, possessing a Masters Degree in Sociology and a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice. I am the youngest of four children and a mother of three. An avid tattoo collector and advocate for the arts, I embrace life and all it´s little treasures.

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